Building Engineering

H O M E A N D O F F I C E M A K E- OV E R

USD $3

INSPIRED DESIGN DISTINGUSHED LANDMARKS maiden edition 2017 building engineering

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CONTENT

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Cover feature Alford House

Design Up

Project feature Madokero

Timeless Architecture Nico van der Muelen

Landscape focus

Š Copyright: Building Engineering is the exclusive property of the publisher and it is an offence to reproduce any copyright material without permission from the publisher.

Whilst every effort has been made to produce accurate information, we cannot be held responsible for any errors.

All material is subject to our unrestricted right to comment editorially.

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Content Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in Building Engineering magazine and Afrique Infra Rapport (pvt) ltd does not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publisher or its agents.

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EDITOR’S NOTE Do You have a Home, Office or space that needs a Make Over?

If you are – you now have, in your hands, the unique and innovative “one-stop-shop” to find all you need under one cover. Welcome to “BUIDING ENGINEERING MAGAZINE ” Although there are several other great magazines around, their focus is either on homes, styles and gardens, or on building, and construction or engineering. This unique and innovative magazine seeks to combine all of these, and more - to provide you, the Home or Office owner, with all the experts, information, contacts, and suppliers you may need - in one place.

ADDRESS 13 Harare Dr, Borrowdale Harare, 04 2934605

In this, and future monthly editions, we will feature all the people who can help make your plans and ideas become a reality. This is the resource you have been looking for!

In this edition, we showcase the award-winning housing estate in Madokero, by Exodus & Company, the new Gtel Office building in town, Alford House.

Laurie Thompson

So, are you thinking of building, renovating or revamping your Home or Office in any way? Look no further than “Home and Office Make-Over” BUIDING ENGINEERING MAGAZINE

editor@thebemag.com

Don’t miss out! Subscribe to receive your copy monthly.

MARKETING

Enjoy the start of your exciting, make-over journey.

Neema Paul

Laurie Thompson

0772 932 805

EDITOR

Bonaparte T. Chifamba Arthur Mungule

DESIGN AND LAYOUT Tonderai

PUBLISHER Afrique Infra Rapport (pvt) Ltd

CONTRUBITORS Mandlankosi Mkanya Brighton Ngarava Hugh Thompson

SUBSCRIPTIONS subscriptions@thebemag.com buildingengineeringmagazine@gmail.com

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COVER FEATURE ALFORD HOUSE 112 Nelson Mandela is the new headquarters

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he new headquarters for prominent technology company Gtel Zimbabwe.

Located in a sleepy portion of Nelson Mandela between 4th & 5th, it is the first building on the block since Independence, an opportunity for the technology company to assert itself in the marketplace as an established player.

The project complements, contrasts, blends in & antagonizes its locale in a bizarre fashion -those who have encountered it are invariably impressed, the balance have passed by and not noticed it!

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The building’s design focuses on comfort for occupants, an impressionable facade, and an optimized floor plate allowing for maximum utilization. It is incredibly efficient - 76% of the gross floor area is working space, true value for the investor.

The solar gain the building will receive on three of its four sides was one of the most significant design challenges. For this reason, the faces respond to this need with recessed aluminum framing, in the style of a curtain wall, specifically designed at the correct angle to create shadows and avoid excessive solar gain. Brise soleil have been

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NELSON MANDELA AVENUE

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employed as an additional climatic response. On top of this, the building uses double glazing offering a high degree of solar protection. The purity and repetition of the lines of the façade grant it unique and iconic character.

The internal environment was designed to be deliberately youthful - a rational objective, given the average age of a Gtel employee is 26 years! Work areas are punctuated with colourful breakout spaces, well lit interiors, open plan workspaces, large glazing on all facades to allow(and maintain) a visual connection between inside & outside - ultimately resulting in a relaxed yet formal working environment.

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It is the outcome that we are delighted with - It was the client’s objective that the building asserts itself as a design leader and a winner, it is our conviction that objective has been met.

Text by Phillip Kudzayi Project Manager

BEFO

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BEFORE

AFTER

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ISSUE FEATURE DESIGN UP DESIGN APPROACH TO CUTTING EDGE INTERIOR DESIGN

Royal Harare Golf Club

SPEC Space is a blank canvas and creativity is the paint brush that gives that empty space meaning and fullest expression.

This is the design approach to cutting edge interior design.

Discovering accentuations and angles that bind elements, objects and space together harmoniously is not an easy task.

It requires skill and expertise, the kind that Design Up has been offering different industry sectors. This is what has made Design Up a trusted name in the Design industry sector with a combined project space of 50 000m2 of interior design work completed within the past 6 years in Retail, commercial, corporate, domestic and leisure projects across Africa.

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Design is about turning ideas and concepts into beautiful realities and functional spaces.

The Design Up team has been able to do this consistently within the regional and international market. Interpreting every client’s vision and bringing that vision from a mere concept to a tangible reality is a special skill that the Design Up Team has acquired through years of experience in the field.

Why is Design Up committed to delivering the best solution for all our clients? As a company Design Up understands that each space should be tailor-designed into a functional space that integrates all the activities, elements and routines of that environment.

There is nothing as frustrating as having to work or live in a dysfunctional space, office or house.

Design Up understands and appreciates the importance of Design and its positive impact in increasing productivity, promoting sanctity and inspiring creativity of companies, individuals and employees that is why we are committed to delivering effective solution .

When you design an environment you can influence the elements within that environment that propel and increase productivity. Naturally your design approach should involve the rightful use of color themes to achieve certain environmental tones which subconsciously

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influence the people in that environment. Environment is an important aspect to achieving any desired end so creative design process is critical to achieving specific and key result areas .

Africom

SPECIALIST CONTRACTORS

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ZBCA HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER? APPLICATION PROCESS -Prospective member purchases a form.

-The applicant submits a duly completed form to ZBCA Secretariat visits the applicant to assess company human capital and equipment resources.

-On receipt of the completed form ZBCA Secretariat visit the applicant to assess company human capital and equipment resources.

-The duly completed membership application form and visit report are submitted to the ZBCA specialized committee called the Membership Committee for vetting and approval.

-The Membership Committee produces a report either approving or declining membership and submits such report to the National Executive Committee for approval.

-Successful applicants are required to pay annual subscriptions, depending on their category after which they are issued with a membership confirmation letter. Annual subscriptions can be paid monthly, quarterly, half yearly or annually by making arrangements with Secretariat.

-A new member will be placed on production for a period of one year and

during the probationary period: The Member shall submit full written details, on the prescribed from, of all contracts entered into by the Member. This form shall be submitted by the Member to the Secretary within 14 days of signing the contract and this shall be used to monitor the Member’s progress during the probation period.

-After expiry of the Probationary period, the National Executive Committee shall, at its next meeting, receive a report from the Secretary on the Member who has been on probation. Such report, including the probationary Member’s original application shall be considered by the National Executive committee. The said Committee shall in a meeting and by voting, by means of a simple majority accept or reject confirmation of full membership of the applicant. If the applicant s membership application is confirmed by the National Executive Committee, the probationary. Member shall be admitted as a full Member forthwith -After admission to full membership ,ZBCA Secretariat advises the Member to approach the Ministry of Local Govement , Public Works and National Housing for categorization.

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PROJECT FEATURE MADOKERO PREMIER HOUSING PROJECT BY EXODUS & COMPANY

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adokero Estate Project situated in the outskirts of the Central Business District and close to Westgate Shopping Centre is an up market medium and low density location comprising garden flats, duplex apartments and a state-of-the art school .Acacia Junior school.

The project was mooted by a leading housing, real estate developer, Exodus and Company Private Limited, a wholly Zimbabwean owned company.

Since project commence-

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ment in 2012, Madokero Estate project has become the talk of the town in recent years due to its unique and expert architectural design.

Madokero Estate consists of over 1700 residential stands ranging from 368 square metres to 800 square metres; residential flats, shopping centre incorporating retail shops a regional shopping centre to bring convenience to its residence as well as schools among other facilities.

Having started developing the suburb, some projects

are already complete with residents having taken over occupancy.

Among the completed projects is Madokero Gardens which consists of 106 garden apartments with 2-bed roomed and 3-bedroomed apartments. The project which commenced in 2013 was completed in 2015.

Exodus was involved in town planning, infrastructure designing, and construction of roads as well as sewer and water reticulation.

Madokero Mews is another

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complete project which comprises 84 gated garden apartments whose project started in 2014 and was completed last year.

Besides being involved in layout and planning, design and construction, Exodus and Company was also involved in marketing and selling the apartments Exodus has also completed the first phase of the Acacia Junior School – an up market junior school in the suburb. So far the administration block and some classroom blocks for early learning and junior school have been completed in a

project that took only five months to complete.

Exodus & Company is currently working on Imba muMadokero and Madokero Manor which are to be completed this year.

Imba muMadokero consists of 76 garden apartments and Exodus & Company is involved in planning and design, construction of roads, water and sewer systems and the construction of the 2-bedroomed and 3-bedroomed garden apartments as well as the common facilities in the complex. Madokero manor is made out of

17 3-bedroom double storey and four 2-bedroomed double storey gated apartments.

The project has so far employed many people thus creating employment in the country. He also stated that, supplies have been coming from local companies as a way of promoting the growth of local industries. Exodus & Company was formed in 2007 and has grown from strength to strength over the years. The company has the capacity to execute complex proj-

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ects amongst others; housing, transportation infrastructure, water and sewer infrastructure, industrial complexes, healthcare facilities, commercial buildings, education institutions, retail and recreation facilities.

Their capability to embrace innovation, technological development and safety for all has seen them successfully delivering of quality projects to the people.

• The company has been honoured both locally and abroad and has won the following awards; • Chartered Institute of Project Managers Zimbabwe (CIPMZ) Inaugural Awards: Best Project Development of the Year 2017, • World Confederation of Business (WORLDCOB): World Business Leader Award 2015 • European Society for Quality Research’s Quality Achievements Award 2015 • BIDWorld Quality Commitment Award 2014: Gold Award

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vumor

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ISSUE FEATURE PLASTIC SHEETING NOT ALL PLASTICS ARE CREATED EQUAL A FOCUS ON PLASTIC SHEETING IN CONSTRUCTION

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magine a world without plastic. As simple and insignificant as it may seem plastic is the bridge that has allowed a transcendence from modernism to industrialization, it actively plays its part into bringing innovative architectural design ideas into a reality. A simple invention called plastic which is more durable than the conventional glass or wood

is specifically going to zero in on Polythene sheeting in the construction sector.

The question; can construction grade polythene plastic sheeting be used for various construction projects? becomes relevant. Well the answer to that is dependent or various factors. It is critical to understand that not all plastics are created equal.

There are various sources for raw materials that are used to create plastics and that affects the final product; some are made from recycles goods, reground resins and absolute least expensive resins, these are not guaranteed to be pinhole free and can be defective.

POLYTHENE SHEETING UNDER SLAB

containers that have been used for centuries before its’ discovery is now used in products are spread across hundreds of millions of shelves around the world in various shapes, forms, qualities and sizes. Today almost everything is preserved, branded and sold in plastic containers.

Though there is an undoubtedly diverse use for plastics globally, this article 28

Under slab vapor retarders p[lay a very important role in retarding moisture from coming up through the concrete into the structure.

It is wise to use films specifically designed for construction and engineered for use as vapor retarders.

These products are made from 100% virgin resins and have excellent quality control testing the standards of vapor retarders in contact with soil or granular fill used for concrete slabs.

They are engineered not to decay in this type of appli-

cation whereas most begin breaking down immediately and lose their structural strength and integrity within a two year period. It is ok to use retarders with a low percentage point depending on your venture but if you are considering hardwood flooring critical consider application of 100% virgin resins vapor retarders.

THE MANY FACES OF POLYTHENE SHEETING It passes by the names; poly sheeting, plastic sheeting, plastic film, polythene sheet and poly film to give some examples, polythene sheeting is a plastic sheet produced using petroleum. That is the reason the price of this product can change contingent upon the cost of oil.

This is usually sold in rolls and there after substances can be added in it depending on the purpose of the film. An added substance like U.V. inhibitors, fire retardants, hostile static added substances are included so every variety can best serve its expected use.

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TUSILAGO KITCHENS

AD ADDING DD DING VALUE TO YOUR PROPERTY

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SCHOOL PROJECT ACACIA JUNIOR SCHOOL SCHOOL PROJECT BY EXODUS & COMPANY Acacia Junior School destined for greater heights

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ight in the middle of Madokero estates – a medium residential suburb lying 10 kilometers west of the Harare Central Business District – is an up and coming modern school called Acacia Junior School.

The school is destined for greater heights if their vision is clearly followed.

The school built on a 3,7 hectares of land within Madokero Estates opened its doors in January 2016 after the completion of the first phase which paved way for the construction of the Administration Block, Early Childhood Development Classes and the junior school which now offers classes from Grade 1-5.

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When complete, the school is expected to enroll classes up to Grade Seven.

According to the School’s Headmaster, Mr Paul Nenjerama, the school offers a holistic education that develops basic skills and concepts, knowledge and a good attitude through a broad-based and balanced curriculum relevant to a modern day child’s needs.

With a teacher: pupil ration of 1:25, teachers are able to give attention to individual students so that the child’s unique talents both in the classroom and sports filed are nurtured. Besides academic learning and sports, the school enriches chil-

dren through other outside classroom activities that enable children to grow in confidence, build teamwork and develop leadership skills which help them be of service to others.

The school boasts of stateof-the-art infrastructure which includes spacious classrooms furnished with comfortable chairs and other facilities. The surroundings of the school brings a new lease of life to visitors and once in the vicinity, there is a breath of new life.

A member of the Fundo Foundation, Acacia Junior School was created out of the vision of Exodus & Company Private Limited,

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the developers of Madokero Estates who after the providing good infrastructure, a desire arose in them to further develop a sense of a true community hence bringing to birth the exceptional school.

The name Acacia is derived from the acacia (thorn) trees which are prevalent in Madokero Estate and surrounding areas. The tree has a dominance characteristic wherever it is found and the school envisages having a similar dominance in this community.

Their mission is to produce high achieving students in the areas of academic, sport, the arts, social and community engagement.

This is seen in the subjects they offer in which they are following the Primary and Secondary Education System Reform of Zimbabwe (2016-2020). They are offering subjects such as Indigenous Languages, Physical Education, Sport and Mass Displays, Agriculture, Visual and Performing Arts and Information Communication Technology among other new and traditional subjects.

Music, Art and Drama.

Their Motto; Kuvimbika, Hunhu, Kuzvipira, clearly shows the characteristics they want their students to show in the community and wherever they go.

For more information on the school, one can visit Number 2 Acacia Road, Madokero Estates, Harare, Zimbabwe or get in touch on +263 8644147559 / 8644147560 Whatsapp: +263 777997992, Email: info@acaciajuniorschool.com, Facebook: @acaciajuniorschool.com, Twitter @acacia_junior, Website: www.acaciajuniorschool.com

Over and above the cocurriculum, they intend to soon introduce Art and Design, Kiswahili, Zulu, French, Portuguese and Mandarin, BUILDING ENGINEERING 1ST ISSUE

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“

THE WELLNESS

REVOLUTION

DID YOU KNOW THAT POOLS ARE ALSO MEANT TO SHAPE YOUR BODY? Swimming workouts burn fat, trim inches and help you get stronger, tter and healthier the ever. A pool might not be the rst thing you can think of when you want to shape your body up but perhaps it should be. No other workout burns calories, boosts metabolism and trim every muscle in your body without putting stress in your joints.

Researchers at Indiana University compared recreational tness looking between swimmers and non-swimmers, they found that swimmers of all the ages had more lean muscle and trimmer waists and hips. Why water works? The body shaping benets of swimming are the results of a perfect storm of calories burn and muscle recruitment.

An easy swim burns 500 calories per hour, while vigorous effort can torch almost 700. It is so because water is nearly 800 times denser than air, each kick, push and pull is like a mini resistance workout for your entire body using the pool; especially core, hips, arms, shoulders and gluts.

As you swim you build lean muscle, which ignites your metabolism so that you burn more calories once you have showered and dried off. Water basically neutralizes gravity so you become virtually weightless when immersed, giving your joints a much needed vacation.

Swimming literally makes you stay younger. A research shows that a habitual swimmers' biological ages are up to 20years younger than their actual age. Make yourself look younger and energetic by swimming.

This summer make sure you are up for swimming and make it a habit to swim almost everyday or during your spare time, shaping your body the way you feel comfortable with no after effects afterwards. Swimming pool is also good for rehydrating the skin, replenishing cellular joint pains and also helps alleviate problems of sleeplessness.

A pool revives the body, mind and soul!

Contact us today for your pool chemicals and accessories, pool maintenance services and pool renovations Contact us today for your pool chemicals and accessories, pool maintenance services and pool renovations Est1967 | Proudly Associated with Acacia Junior School | With Ofces in Botswana The only pool company with drown proof generation campaign

t: +263 4 445064-5 a: 95 Mutare Road, Msasa Harare w: jacksonmunyezapools.com

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BUILDING MAINTENANCE REIZ broaden its scope; focuses on building maintenance

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he Real Estate Institute of Zimbabwe (REIZ) - a unique member driven organization that unites all persons practicing various disciplines of the profession of real estate - has broaden its scope in real estate business to focus on issues to do with building maintenance and safety and security.

To consceintise concerned stakeholders, the organisation recently held a Building Maintenance Training Workshop at the Holiday Inn in Harare.

The workshop was aimed at encouraging workshop delegates to go back to the basics of property management and property maintenance practices.

The Building Maintenance Training Workshop ran under the theme; “Planning, Scheduling and Management of Maintenance, Safety and Security Systems and Techniques in Buildings.� It was targeted towards property managers, caretakers and commissionaires of buildings among others.

Unlike yester years where REIZ focused on Valuation and Micro and Macro-economic issues affecting the Real Estate Industry of Zimbabwe, this workshop was after a realization that there was a

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need to cover issues on the other end of the spectrum of this growing industry.

The workshop also came after the noticed gradual demise of the real estate structures located in the CBD of Harare, hence the need to meet of minds of the people to chart the way forward.

Among the notable causes of gradual demise of the built environment in the Harare CBD, , was the interminable battle with vendors, parking constraints, street kids, refuse proliferation, water and power cuts, faulty lifts and escalators, outbreak of fires among others. All these, the workshop noted, impacted negatively on the value of buildings. It was therefore the workshop’s finding that in-order to preserve capital values of buildings, there was need to put in place robust maintenance and management strategies at all times.

The pool of presenters was hand-picked from various sectors who include City of Harare, Institute of Architects, National Social Security and the Green Building Council of Zimba-

bwe among others to give an over view and guidance on how best these issues could be managed.

Topics covered by the speakers included; Security Systems in Buildings, Green Building Principles, Overview of Building Designs in Zimbabwe, Safety of Lifts and Escalators in Buildings, Building Maintenance Techniques, Fire Management in Buildings and Waste Management in Buildings among others.

His Worship, the Mayor of the City of Harare, Councilor Bernard Manyenyeni who was represented by Engineer Phillip Pfukwa (Director of Works – City of Harare) was the guest of honour.

Meanwhile, a similar workshop was also held for the Southern Region at the Bulawayo Club. The workshop was slightly different from the Northern Region workshop held in Harare earlier in the year due to the different operation environmental requirements for the two regions, hence it ran in with the theme; “Planning, Scheduling and Management of Maintanance, Safety and Security Systems and Techniques in Build-

ings, Cessions and Sub-Divisions and Consolidations of Land.”

REIZ offers its members an unsurpassed level of experience, commitment and dedication to the real estate industry in Zimbabwe. REIZ members are governed by the institute’s code of conduct to ensure that the institution values are upheld and a high standard of business practice is delivered.

Members gain through seminars, meetings and symposiums; besides, they have a chance to acquire more knowledge, professionally network, to have continued professional development, get career advice and job listing, and have access to leadership in the industry among many other benefits.

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SMITH SUPER TRACK (PVT) LTD

Manufacturers of Garage Doors,Gates,Roller-shutters and Wrought iron work.

Sectional doors available ex stock best prices Add: 20 George Ave, Msasa,Harare Tel/fax: 486528/487269 Mobile: 0712664893/0712613445 Email: hjsmith@mweb.co.zw

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REAL ESTATE FEATURE GROWTH OF THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY, CHALLENGE TO THE REAL ESTATE PROFESSION

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he real estate Industry is a fast growing industry in Zimbabwe. The growth is largely seen through various projects being initiated by both the government and private players, where some residential areas are being swallowed slowly by the Central Business District.

We have also witnessed of late a group of private investors and business community transforming antic buildings lying in the downtown into new hub of retailers, warehouses and fast foods outlets.

Housing projects have also been in the increase and this has seen the development of some amazing suburbs for example the Madokero Estates in the outskirts of Harare, Mabvazuva in Ruwa amongst other modern housing units. A local bank CABS has also built low income housing units in Budiriro among other projects by various compa-

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nies and building societies.

This growth has thrust a major challenge in the real estate profession, an impact that will continue to be felt. New products and challenges are surfacing on a daily basis hence the need to keep up with the trends.

New jobs are opening up as the industry grows. Clients are also becoming more sophisticated in their thinking and they require complex products.

This change and boom in the industry requires players involved in the field of real estate to be equipped with broad knowledge to keep them in pace with the change.

The best way of keeping abreast with the changes in this industry is through interactive forums given through the Real Estate Institute of Zimbabwe (REIZ) – an organization that unites all persons practicing various disciplines of real estate.

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TOTAL

CERAMIC SOLUTIONS

YES

WE HAVE THEM IN

STOCK FLOOR TILES | WALL TILES | SANITARY WARE | ACCESSORIES

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PRODUCT FEATURE A NEW CEMENT PRODUCT LAUNCHED

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here is a new product in town - S’MENT SMALLS which is a unique adventure into the versatility for cement to make small products and objects used in the homes, offices, gardens and lodges.

The products were launched at a private function held in the suburb of Vainona in Harare recently which was attended by various players in the building and construction industry.

On display during the launch were various S’MENT SMALLS products big and small all made from cement by the innovative team under the supervision of the Director, Laura Tofts who is the brains behind the unique project.

Among the smaller products were flower pots which came in different shapes and sizes with succulent plants, decorative balls, coasters, soap dishes, polished garden pavers, polished tiles and concrete planters.

The other bigger items includ-

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ed concrete counters, concrete dining table, cocktail tables made from cement pipes and a coffee table made from a manhole pipe with a special high quality glass. The concrete counters, according to Laura, can even be polished according to the customer’s specifications.

The cement products are acting as replacement of granite which in itself is expensive. They have manufactured tombstones and headstones. This is more affordable as compared to granite.

According to Laura, the idea was to repurpose things which the cement guys already manufacture for the civil engineering like manholes, concrete windows, concrete pipes among others.

The use of cement came about after a realisation that cement is more eco-friendly and sustainable than we

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think, as it lasts for a long time.

of products, Laura is thinking big.

“I have been selling paint for 16 years, including decorative paint for houses and later I began selling the brand – Cemcrete, which is coloured cement for walls, floors, waterproofing and pools and from that experience, I realised that cement was very versatile. I then decided to make these products. This is just the beginning and we will see where it goes,” she said.

“I wish to have a creative outlet and secondly I want to work with designers for homes and offices, architects and take their expertise and designs and create things for them. In the end I want to have a full productive team, create employment and create local products.”

The launch was the fulfillment of an idea which started in January this year where they have been designing various products.

They have already received lots of orders on special days like Valentines Day and Mother’s Day and they are continuing to sell more.

On the launch, a number of products where sold out to individuals including the coffee table, which is one of the biggest products on show.

Laura says most of her designs are inspired by people and their own ideas - they can manufacture as per specification of the customer and make their vision come true.

Having launched her range

She is currently operating from home where she has a workshop for small cement products and she has also partnered Homestyle Bricks where she has the workshop for the huge products.

Laura has a word for Zimbabweans.

“Nothing ventured nothing gained. If you don’t try, you will never know. It’s better to make a decision and go for something than not to make a decision and do nothing.

“I want the creative sector of Zimbabweans to take courage and be bold so that the consumer market start focusing local,” she said adding that she was tired of people who always sought for products from South Africa yet Zimbabwe has such amazing talent.

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INTERIOR FOCUS GYPROC - MARKET LEADERS SINCE 1959 ISO CERTIFIED 9001:2015

G

yproc Zimbabwe, BPB (British Plaster Board Group) Gypsum, is the leader in the supply of lightweight wall and ceiling finishing plasters.

With almost 60 years of industry experience and presence Gyproc Zimbabwe are specialist in the distribution of Rhino boards, Rhino cove cornice, Ceiling tiles (mineral fibre and gypsum), Ceiling & partitioning grids, Tile adhesives and grouts, Industrial and domestic insulation materials and more.

As an industry and market leader in the manufacturing sector of lightweight building materials and energy conserving RhinoBoard for all interior lining applications the company has consolidated and has been confirmed as the preferred brand against its competitors. Its position as a market leader in the supply of Rhinoset, Rhinobond, Rhinocovebond, Rhinomould, RhinoSuperfinewhite, Isover and Weber products since 1959 is not a surprise. It all comes down to quality.

Gyproc’s competitive edge is retained by accessing changing market needs, while pushing boundaries through constant research and development. In addition, our product testing and flexibility of design, enables us to offer the construction industry and end users, an assurance that all products are tried, tested and backed by almost 60 years of experience and industry knowledge, ensuring credibility to our position as market leaders.

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Our vision is to be the markets’ preferred partner supplying innovative, energy efficient and sustainable building systems to the African market. We shall always deliver high quality products and shall be committed to continually improving our quality performance in line with our dynamic and innovative products for our clients’ specific needs and requirements.

This certifies our position as the preferred and only market leader in tis industry sector. Gyproc leading the way, all the way.

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MANUFACTURERS OF

CEILING

CONCRETE

CONTACTS Add: 65 Coventry Road. Tel: 754320 / 754207 / 0772 349 418 0774 839 916 Emails: coventry@iwayafrica.co.zw | davidhbrain@gmail.com

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ARCHITECTURE FOCUS TIMELESS ARCHITECTURE NICO VAN DER MEULEN

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n this edition I have the privilege of writing this Article. I started my career as an architect at Nico van der Meulen Architects 5years also have been awarded the opportunity to get involved with the M squared lifestyle as a Senior Designer 3years ago. I have been privileged enough to be mentored

by Nico van der Meulen and his two sons, Rudolph and Warner, learning the secrets that brought this internationally acclaimed brand to where it is today. I have both learned and observed which elements are needed to fulfill our client’s needs; mainly exceptional designs, excellent customer service and close inspection of every aspect of the building process to be able to complete an exquisite end product for our clients.

It is my pleasure to give you a

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brief look into the process of our projects.

From inception, the brief and plans are discussed extensively with our client to ensure that their dream home is not just a functionless shell, but rather an integrated vessel for their lifestyle. When we and our clients are content with the design, the extrapolation of the plan begins and one starts to explore the magic of design and the pushing of boundaries. Not only do we strive to give our clients a true one-of-a-kind-home but also something to be admired for years to come. This process is a combined company effort as the entire design team is involved in the process to ensure the best outcome for our clients. This is evident in both the Architectural Design, as well as the Interior Designs in all our projects.

Extensive consideration is put into the construction and drawing methods in order to realize the dream. Each project gets assigned to one of the architects on our team who then monitors the construction process and also assists in making the projects run as smoothly as possible.

Currently we are involved in numerous projects locally and abroad. One of my personal highlights at the moment is One Forrest Road in Inanda – a project that is in its completion phase and is a proud culmination between Nico van der

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Meulen Architects, M Square Lifestyle Design, M Square Lifestyle Necessities and our client. It has been a project with different layers of Green design advanced through technology, all carefully integrated into modern/ contemporary steel, glass and concrete design. Engineering rules were challenged and reconsidered in order to achieve the numerous cantilever steel boxes, which assisted in completing the original design intent. Standard steel profiles were also used in an innovative way to create seamless and floating effects on the exterior screens.

Another highlight is our project in Lagos – Nigeria. A 600m2 Penthouse which has been carefully designed to combine accomplished South African design with Italian flair. This will complement a unique project that will be sure to leave people searching for words. What stands out in this project is the vast combination of nationalities working together. The project team consists of a German main Contractor, Italian Fit-out Company and a professional team of people spread between South Africa and Nigeria - a true mixture of culture.

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HOME FOCUS

BY MODERN HOMES

Harare Pvc ceilings Suppliers is a Zimbabwean owned fast growing supplier of pvc ceiling panels and home decorative finishing.

Currently with 2 Branches in Harare 1 in the cbd along Robson Manyika and recently opened a branch in msasa along Steven drive and also have 2 branches in Bulawayo Our policy has always been to maintain an extensive and broad stocks of pvc ceiling panels and related consumables in our warehouse, enabling a fast turnaround for standard stock items and a fast leadtime for non-stock. We are continually adding new products to our portfolio.

Renovations or building today can run into huge sums of money, so it makes sense, therefore, to shop around for the best possible product, cost-wise and efficiency-wise, before committing to a product.

There are new and innovative products being added to suppliers’ lists regularly and it is always advisable to check new products out and not automatically choose what has been used in the past.

If fitting new ceilings, whether in a renovated home/office or a new build, gone are the days when gypsum boards would be 54

the automatic choice.PVC PANEL are preferable to gypsum for a number of reasons and are the ideal substitute. Many developers are now seeing the benefits of using pvc ceilings boards are available in Zimbabwe and can be purchased from branches in Harare or Bulawayo. advantages . Fire retardant •

100% water resistant (including; moisture and damp proof), washable and easy to clean

•

No settlement cracks, warping, rusting or rotting

•

Anti-mould and insect proof

•

No painting or varnishing required

•

High durability and impact resistant

•

Easy to maintain and recyclable

•

High flexibility and unlimited application.

saves on labour costs, adding to the cost-efficiency of the product.

PVC Ceilings is a very easy product to install. Can be stapled, , screwed or glued.

The sides fit exactly into each other to create an unbelievable flush joint. Also available are strips and corners with slots to hold the panels perfectly. .

Whilst we are best known for our PVC CEILING PANELS .we have rapidly increased our product range to include polystyrene and polyurethane products – Cornices, Dado Rails, Ceiling Medallions centre pieces and Ceiling Tiles, our range also includes lighting – downlight ,fanlights and our hot selling mp3 3 colour/shades remote controlled ceiling lights we are continually innovating and looking for products to meet the growing needs of the DIY enthusiast.

Our clients range from government projects, colleges ,universities, churches contractors to home owners

The boards come in a variety of colours as well as gloss and matt finishes, which would add to the savings made, as there is no need for paint on the boards. This, in turn, also

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LANDSCAPE FOCUS

BY HUGH THOMPSON which are also on the property market that people would visit.

2: It Creates an Instantly Established garden

5 Reasons to Invest in a Professionally Landscaped, Organic, Garden Property owners and investors are more and more focusing their attention on new trends, linking the indoors with the outdoors, as they make the best of their homes, offices and buildings with innovative, organically landscaped, garden designs. Here are 5 great reasons to invest in a Professionally Landscaped, Organic, Garden.

1: Investing in a Landscaped Garden Increases the Value of Your Property As we all know, “First Impressions Count!” Property Evaluators will testify that investing in a landscaped garden increases the value of your property by at least another one third of the

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resale value and is easier to sell. It’s not about merely having “a neat garden”. A professionally landscaped garden (even on a minimal budget) blends the garden shapes, contours and colours to enhance the buildings and structures, thereby exponentially increasing the overall visual impact and pleasure. A landscaped garden creates an immediate impression of excellent completion, upmarket planning, expertise and investment – whereas a basic, unestablished garden could create the impression of a less valuable, unfinished or lower market property.

Therefore, If your property is on the market, good landscaping will make it stand out from all others

Professional Landscaping uses more mature plants and a well planned, balanced garden design, which creates the impression of a well-established, well cared-for garden.

This enables the potential owners to feel immediately more ‘at home’. An ‘ordinary’ garden usually takes several months (or years!) for the grass to grow and still leaves uneven ground or uncovered patches of mud or sand. The plants and trees usually remain scanty and sparse, are slow to establish and the whole garden looks rather unfinished, “just an after-thought” at best, and

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shabby at worst! This decreases the value of your investment!

floating debris and winds bringing in unwanted rubbish onto the property.

3: It Guarantees A Unique Design

A professionally designed landscape can block or buffer unpleasant views and oversight of unwanted properties, buildings, roads or high traffic areas. This also can work to protect the property from unwanted onlookers, which increases security and privacy.

Landscaping is the same as painting a beautiful picture, it is “living art�. Each professional landscape is unique, designed to enhance and add to the building and structures, the use and purpose of the venue, soil types, water availability and other factors. Each landscape has its own individual design that will set the property apart from any others, therefore increasing its value..

4: It impacts and improves your environment An expertly landscaped garden helps lower the noise levels of passing traffic and neighbours. Well placed, aesthetically pleasing trees and shrubs act as buffers to absorb unwanted noise and help protect your property from busy roads, passing pedestrians and noisy neighbours.

Well-placed trees and shrubs also help protect your environs from dust,

Good landscaping can contribute to other environmental factors such as contributing to lowering temperatures in very warm areas or buildings.

5: Only 100% Organic Materials protect your Investment.

It Is scientifically proven that most of the benefits of chemical fertilizers are trapped by the soils (being not organically bio-available) and are never released for the plants. Because of this, the chemicals have to be used repeatedly, which causes severe chemical toxic build-up in the soil. This breaks down

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the soil structure and eventually destroys the soils, so no living organisms can naturally survive to replenish the soil. The soil becomes hard like concrete and loses the ability to draw in water, and so it all runs off as it would on a concrete slab.

Unhealthy, dead soils will, of course, lead to unhealthy plants, stunted, scanty growth, fewer flowers and increased pestilence, fungus and diseases.

This will naturally be detrimental to your investment.

Using fertilizers on plants also gives them so many chemical nutrients that the plants undergo unnaturally rapid growth, which severely weakens them. Because the plants are distressed from the un-natural growth spurts, they send out pheromones and chemicals that attract harmful insect invasions.

Unfortunately, to prevent the insect invasion, copious amounts of chemicals are sprayed on the plants to resist their attacks, causing further harm to the environment and plants.

Country Fresh Organic composts and Foliar Feeds are 100% available to the plants which enables vigorous growth from healthy, life-giving nutrients, not from unnatural growth hormones. The plants are very strong and vigorous and do not emit any pheromones that attract insect attack.

Although initially more expensive, Country Fresh Organics give your garden an excellent nutrient-rich foundation that will establish your garden well and 58

help protect your investment from Insect plagues or diseases.

In conclusion, imagine escaping into your beautifully landscaped garden on a summer evening to sit in the luxurious green tranquillity after a stressful day at work? Or picture yourself entertaining your guests outdoors in the cool beauty over the weekends. Should we mention the peace and pleasure of enjoying your coffee and meditations in the quiet solitude and privacy of your beautiful surroundings. You’ll feel the benefits every day.

So although we initially said “5 Reasons”, you can see there are so many more!

Contact us today to start to Invest in a Professionally Landscaped, Organic, Garden.

HUGH THOMPSON LANDSCAPING AND COUNTRY FRESH ORGANICS Cel: +263 772 270 236

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IAZ REGISTERED ARCHITECTS

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